Government Eases Egypt's Early Shop Closing Hours Following Daylight Saving Time

Following the recent implementation of Daylight Saving Time (DST) on April 24th, the Egyptian Cabinet has decided to revert to the previous operating hours for businesses across the country. This move aims to strike a balance between conserving energy and accommodating the public's daily routines and economic activities.

Under the new regulations, shops and malls will no longer be required to close at 11 pm on weekdays. Instead, they can remain open until midnight on Thursdays and Fridays, as well as during official holidays and vacations. This extension is expected to benefit businesses, particularly those reliant on evening and weekend commerce, and provide greater convenience for shoppers.

Restaurants and cafes will see their operating hours adjusted to run from 5 am to 1 am. Crucially, these establishments will continue to offer round-the-clock takeaway and delivery services, ensuring continuous availability for customers. Workshops and craft businesses within residential areas will operate from 8 am to 7 pm daily, with specific exemptions for those located on main roads or providing essential services.

Several categories of businesses, including grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies, and wholesale markets, have been granted exemptions from the DST-related hour changes, recognizing their essential role in daily life. Additionally, shops in coastal governorates may have their hours modified based on local proposals to cater to the tourism sector and nighttime activities. This nuanced approach reflects Egypt's efforts to adapt DST regulations to diverse economic and social needs.